Sometimes called Foster-to-Adopt, you may adopt your foster child if he or she becomes “legally free.”

Adopting a child from foster care differs from other domestic and international adoption processes. Most kids who are legally available for adoption—i.e., the state decided it is was not safe to reunify the child with his or her biological parents and terminated their parent-child relationship—are at least 7 or 8 years old. Adoption from foster care is a complex process that warrants an in-person discussion with an experienced attorney.

Private attorneys typically play a very small role until finalization, because the process is managed by the Washington State Department of Children Youth and Families and their case workers. We can, however, consult with you to evaluate whether adopting from foster care is a good path for your family. We also advise and support foster parents working with DCYF before the child is legally free—for example, reviewing a proposed open adoption agreement or explaining adoption support benefits.

If you have any questions, please visit our FAQ page or contact us directly.